Two-Factor Authentication

Information Technology

What is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds a second layer of security to your online accounts. The cyber-threats and attacks continue to increase in number and sophistication. These recent incidents on various institutions, and especially universities, demonstrate that passwords alone are no longer sufficient to protect data.

Most people are familiar with two-factor authentication as it is used when withdrawing funds from an ATM machine. The two factors required for an ATM transaction are the person's PIN (something the person knows) and the ATM card (something the person possesses)
In the university environment, authentication factors will typically consist of the person's password (something known) and a mobile device or a token (something in possession).

Guide to Two-Factor Authentication


When is Two-Factor Needed?

Two-Factor Authentication is NEEDED for off-campus logins to:

  • UT Share
  • Outlook Email
  • Direct Access
  • Horizon Virtual Desktops/Applications (one.uttyler.edu)
  • DocuSign
  • SmartSheet


When is Two-Factor NOT Needed?

Two-Factor Authentication is NOT NEEDED to access:

  • myUTTyler
  • Canvas
  • Astra